CAD Software Engineer, Principal-18736

Synopsys; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Synopsys, Inc. Ottawa requires an experienced Software Architect/ASIC design engineer to lead and advance design automation for cutting-edge semiconductor projects. You will mentor peers, architect robust UNIX/Linux based solutions, and drive Agile processes across multi-disciplinary teams.

You will collaborate with senior experts to accelerate workflows, integrate AI-enabled tools, and deliver high-performance silicon and software content for top-tier applications.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering required.
• Expertise in Python, Perl, Tcl; strong UNIX/Linux skills.
• Experience with design automation and ASIC flow.
• Strong testing and version control practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop Agile software engineering methods for ASIC design automation.
• Plan and oversee architecture and development of design automation tools.
• Define innovative software and ASIC design approaches.
• Prepare design specs and present findings to stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate cross-functionally.
• Share knowledge and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Python

Perl

TCL

UNIX/Linux

Agile methodologies

Mentoring

Leadership

Design automation

Education

MS or PhD in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Custom Compiler/Virtuoso

Git

Perforce

Job description

We Are:

At Synopsys, we drive the innovations that shape the way we live and connect. Our technology is central to the Era of Pervasive Intelligence, from self-driving cars to learning machines. We lead in chip design, verification, and IP integration, empowering the creation of high-performance silicon chips and software content. Join us to transform the future through continuous technological innovation.

You Are:

You are a seasoned Software Architect or ASIC design engineer with a strong affinity for design automation and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in advanced semiconductor development. Passionate about leveraging technology to solve real-world challenges, you thrive in dynamic, collaborative environments and take pride in mentoring others. Your expertise spans across electronic engineering foundations and advanced programming skills, including Python, Perl, and TCL. You’re comfortable architecting robust solutions in UNIX/Linux environments and have hands-on experience with Agile software engineering methodologies.

Your curiosity drives you to stay current with emerging tools and AI frameworks, and you are adept at integrating new technologies into established workflows. You have a proven record of successfully leading and executing complex projects from inception to completion, and you naturally take initiative to guide junior peers, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. Your analytical mindset, strong communication skills, and ability to adapt to evolving project requirements make you a valuable contributor to any team. Above all, you’re motivated by the opportunity to make a significant impact in the world of chip design and automation.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Developing and applying Agile software engineering methods, theories, and research techniques to solve complex technical problems within the ASIC design automation domain.
• Planning, executing, and overseeing technical projects related to the architecture and development of advanced application software for design automation.
• Defining and selecting innovative approaches for implementing software engineering applications and ASIC design specifications.
• Preparing detailed design specifications, conducting comprehensive technical investigations, and presenting findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborating closely with team members on task-oriented projects and cross-functional initiatives to accelerate design workflows.
• Networking with senior internal and external experts to share knowledge and best practices in design automation and software development.
• Mentoring and guiding junior peers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages continuous learning.

The Impact You Will Have:

• Accelerating and automating design activities across R&D and circuit design teams, improving overall productivity and innovation velocity.
• Enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of design communities through the deployment of advanced software tools and automation frameworks.
• Driving innovation in chip design and verification by implementing state-of-the‑art solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Contributing directly to the development and integration of high‑performance silicon chips and software content used in leading‑edge applications.
• Facilitating seamless integration of IP across various projects, ensuring robust and scalable design automation tools are in place.
• Enabling teams to deliver reliable, high‑quality results by establishing best practices in design automation and software engineering.

What You’ll Need:

• MS or PhD in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering with at least 10+ years of direct industry experience.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python, Perl, and TCL, with a demonstrated ability to develop robust automation solutions.
• Hands‑on experience with Custom Compiler/Virtuoso, circuit and layout automation.
• Strong familiarity with test‑driven development, unit testing, and functional testing methodologies.
• Strong familiarity with version control systems especially with Git and Perforce.
• Advanced proficiency in UNIX/Linux environments, with the ability to optimize workflows and troubleshoot complex issues.
• Working knowledge of a major AI framework or demonstrated experience using AI to accelerate software development processes.

Who You Are:

• A proactive learner with a keen interest in exploring new technologies and methodologies.
• An excellent problem solver with strong analytical and investigative skills.
• A collaborative team player who builds productive working relationships and communicates effectively.
• A self‑starter capable of executing projects from start to completion with minimal supervision.
• A sophisticated professional with advanced knowledge and wide‑ranging experience in design automation and software engineering.

The Team You’ll Be A Part Of:

You will join the Design Automation Team, which provides the design community with software tools to accelerate and automate design activities. This team is integral to our R&D and circuit design efforts, working on cutting‑edge projects that push the boundaries of technology. You’ll collaborate with leading experts, contribute to impactful solutions, and be part of a culture that values innovation, diversity, and continuous improvement.

Rewards and Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive range of health, wellness, and financial benefits to cater to your needs. Our total rewards include both monetary and non‑monetary offerings. Your recruiter will provide more details about the salary range and benefits during the hiring process.